An instantly readable and listenable novel by Marissa Meyer. This is a perfect blend of YA contemporary romance with a dash of supernatural and social awareness

“Sophomore year would have been a walk in the park if it hadn’t been for marine biology and Quint Erickson.”

Instant Karma by Marissa Meyer was super cute. Take a driven, yet sort of self involved heroine, and pair her up as a lab partner with someone who is seemingly lazy and irresponsible. Cue the disaster that is this pairs final science project. That’s where we start this story off. With polar opposites Pru and Quint failing epically at working together.

We then follow Pru over her summer as she sort of comes together with Quint in ways that she never expected. Pru is trying to convince Quint to redo their science project with her, but he’s not feeling it. At least not until she offers to help out at the Fortuna Beach Sea Animal Rescue Center his mom runs. He thinks she won’t do it, but he doesn’t realize, Pru will do anything for the grade, even spend her summer smelling like fish! It doesn’t hurt that she seems to have acquired some sort of karmic magic that she can wield at the squeeze of a hand.

I think it’s smart that Meyer introduces us to these two from Pru’s biased perspective. It really lends to the way we eventually get to know Quint. Reluctantly (haha) through Pru’s eyes. I thought that this was a great YA love story. Their friendship is non-existent at first, more enemies than anything, then grows to more over time. Pru has flaws. She isn’t a perfect bubbly character. I appreciated that because don’t we all have moments of selfishness or poor decision making? I think sometimes in fiction we expect characters to be without fault, and I liked that our lead had faults and had to recognize and grow out of them. Quint also has his flaws, even though they aren’t really as extensive as Pru once assumed. I like that these two got to know each other on a deeper level, and sort of learned that they were more than the people they were in science.

Add in a crew of awesome friends and side characters, karaoke Tuesdays, karmic magic, saving cute sea life, Beatle’s references, and a bit of a real life villain sub-plot and I thought this story was entertaining. I think that anyone can enjoy this read, but I definitely think it will work for older middle grade and younger YA readers.

I received an e-arc of Instant Karma from Macmillan Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to both for letting me receive it early! Prudence (Pru) falls at a karaoke bar and gains the ability to send karma to people based on their actions. This is great until she realizes that not everything is black and white -- life is complicated and maybe it's not her place to judge. Exasperating, irritatingly adorable Quint is Pru's lab partner and the two must overcome their differences and work together on a special project. The small town, beach setting makes it fun. Additional characters, like her brother, Jude, and quirky parents add to the mix. Breezy CLEAN romance that should be purchased in multiples by middle school librarians. Pru has a lot to teach early teens and girls will clamor for this book due to author recognition and the cute cover and title. Book talks should emphasize relationships and sea life rehabilitation/rescue and play down the fantasy element, as the whole "karma" thing really stays on the sideline. Overall, a great book for ages 12-15.

Let me preface this review and say that Marissa Meyer is my favorite author. I have loved all of her books and The Lunar Chronicles is my favorite series. That being said, for Marissa Meyer’s first real contemporary book, it was good. Was it her best work? No, I think she has other books that are superior to this one.

I don’t think people should expect heavy magical realism from this book. It is very light and the main focus is a contemporary story. I think the “Instant Karma” power wasn’t the main focus of the book. I think it was in the beginning of the novel, but I found that it went to the backburner once the story really took off. I think at some points it did help the story move along, but it wasn’t as large a focus as I thought it would be. I also don’t think romance is a large focus for this book either. While there is romance, it is also very light and doesn’t happen until the last 100 pages of the book.

I think what was mainly brought to the forefront of the novel was the fact that Prudence found an enjoyment for helping the rescue center. Even the science project that she was redoing took a backseat during this story. There were multiple times I forgot that was even happening.

Also, Prudence was really bratty for the first third of this novel. I found her very annoying and at some points was rooting for Quint. I do think that she was able to overcome that as she progressed through the story. That is the main reason why this wasn't a five star read for me.

Overall, I say Marissa Meyer did a good job of writing her first contemporary and I was entertained throughout the book. I may be biased because she is my favorite author, but I am happy with what she wrote and look forward to her future books.

I don’t want to give this book a proper rating as I don’t think it’d be fair. I tried reading this but it really wasn’t for me. Especially as it’s very much geared toward teen readers and just did not click for me. I do think it’ll be a lot of fun for the right person, so don’t let my thoughts stop you! It’s got a YA contemporary flavor with a hint of magic. So potentially a good gateway into the YA fantasy world. However, I didn’t like the main character very much and although I don’t always feel the need to like MC’s, in this case it made it hard to get into the story.

What an adorably sweet romance for teens. The "enemies to lovers" trope is in full force, as overachieving-serious about schoolwork-Prudence endures a difficult biology class project partnership with the frequently late-always carefree-Quint, much to her chagrin, only to find her feelings about him changing drastically over the summer as she gets to know him while volunteering at a marine animal rescue center. I kind of thought at the beginning that Prudence was *really* narrowminded and downright horrible in her interactions with Quint, but I guess you have to start from a place of blindness so that when your character's eyes are opened it's a more dramatic leap. But really, she was almost unlikable herself for a while there. The "magical karmic power" she gets is a fun twist, makes it kind of a like a Sabrina episode or something. Fun summer read, and now I really want to go visit a wildlife rescue place and see some seals and sea lions up close!

I want to preface this and say I adore Marissa Meyer. The Lunar Chronicles kicked off my love of reading as an adult. I loved Heartless and the Renegades series; so suffice it to say I was ecstatic to receive Instant Karma.

That said, I don’t think this book was for me. While I adore Meyer’s writing style and her ability to take me on a journey with her words; this book didn’t quite get me there.

Instant Karma is just what it sounds like; our MC Prudence (Pru) ends up with the ability to deliver instant karma unto anyone she believes is deserving. However, Prudence’s character is not only naive but kind of a jerk. She can only see her side of things, even when the truth might be staring her in the face.

Obviously there is a lesson to be learned from this book; not everything is exactly as you see it. And maybe, try to be kind and stop thinking that everyone is below you. This is probably a story meant for a younger generation than mine.

This was a cute contemporary with a sprinkle of magic.

Even though at times, Prudence came across cringey because of her reaction and thought process, I really enjoyed the relationship that develops between her and Quint and her overall growth as a character. There were times where I rolled my eyes because I knew something “bad” would happen because of something she did or said, but in the end, I think Prudence pulls through as a protagonist. Plus, the romantic tension between these two is perfect.

I also love the sea animal rescue angle. It never came across pushy or preachy, just something that is important and needs to be addressed in more books. Plus, who can resist cute sea animals?

My only problem with the book is that the entire marketing of the story focuses on Prudence’s powers to enact social karma on people who do good and bad and that felt like an afterthought while reading it. It’s like Marissa Meyer had an idea for a contemporary novel but because she normally writes fantasy or science-fiction, there had to be a little bit of that added to the story. While it nudges some of the plot forward, the story would read mostly the same even without that twist.

Other than expecting more out of the karma aspect, this was a cute and fun contemporary. I hope Marissa Meyer considers writing more contemporary because she has a knack for charming characters and good plot lines. Also, I need a story about Jude ASAP.

One of my favorite genres taken on by one of my favorite YA authors. I am excited to share this novel with my students.

This is a really cute contemporary romance that felt like a DCOM. I mean that in the best possible way. Overall, this reads much younger than the author's other work, and I think it would be good for upper middle grade to lower high school readers. The writing is meandering at times, but boy does Marissa Meyer know how to write chemistry between two characters. Give to fans of TATBILB.

I want to start off with saying that Marissa Meyer is one of my favorite authors. Her fantasy series (and standalone, Heartless) are on point, and I have loved each one! With that being said, this book was an anomaly for me. I went in expecting more fantasy because that is what she has put out, but oddly enough, the fantasy aspects were actually my least favorite and felt a bit out of place in the story. Thankfully, she kept it to a more magical realism than full on magic which in my opinion kept it unique and more contemporary. I just honestly wish that she would have stuck to the storyline of Prudence and Quint without the fantastical elements because that was a great plotline. They had such a fun dynamic; I fell in love with them and their twisted love/hate relationship! It is such a cute story with an important message about animal rescue, and I think it will be one that will spark many conversations. I would highly recommend this, and I know it will be well loved!

I usually spend a rather inordinate amount of time praising Marissa Meyer's books, so in a way I suppose it's not surprising that I <em>loved</em> her newest book, <em>Instant Karma</em>. But, in my defense, there's actually a <em>lot</em> to love about this one. I usually enter Marissa's books with pretty high expectations, too, since I'm often riding off how much I love and appreciate <em>The Lunar Chroincles</em>. And if nothing else, <em>Instant Karma</em>, is an <em>excellent</em> example of having a wonderfully developed main character.

<b>To Be Type A</b>

Prudence, or Pru, is basically your typical Type A personality. She's a chronic overachiever, is very aggressive in her passion for work and getting things done <em>her </em>way. She has a hard time surrendering control with pretty much everything and is quick to take over if she feels like something won't be completed to standard. Of course, this makes it easy to domineer over others. And it's kind of hilarious since Pru also wants others to do their share of the work.

When she's partnered with Quint Erickson for a biology project, she is quick to determine and judge him for his apparent slacker tendencies and assumes from the start that not only will he not do the work but that his work will be extremely subpar. It doesn't help that he's almost always late to class. When the big day arises for their presentation and it's immediately clear that they did not work on it as a team, their grade suffers.

As Pru is thoroughly incapable of accepting a C for any project with her name on it, she convinces her Biology teacher to give her a re-try. The only problem? She has to convince Quint to complete it with her.

Thus begins a wild summer in which Pru suddenly has to reevaluate everything she thought she knew about Quint Erickson.

<b>A Path Toward Self-Improvement</b>

Honestly, I'm a <em>huge</em> fan of Marissa Meyer's writing style. The other thing I'm a massive fan of is the way she develops her characters. I've generally been massively impressed with the flawed sort of characters who have a long path toward growing up or finding redemption and actually get there. This sort of development has Prudence's name written <em>all</em> over it. In retrospect, Pru's development is hands down the best thing about this entire book.

I can't say I blame some readers for finding her downright unlikable. At times, she genuinely is. But the great thing about Pru's character is that she questions herself over the course of the novel. Sure, Prue begins as a judgmental girl. She starts off certain to her core that she is right in casting aspersions on those around her. But as the story progresses, she re-examines herself and her preconceived beliefs. She takes the time to realize that her early opinions were not entirely founded.

I <em>loved</em> this about Pru. Sure, she starts out very self-righteous and positive that she can't possibly be or do wrong. She begins feeling superior and deserving of this newfound power to enact karma upon those around her. But later? Later, Pru realizes many of her errors. She recognizes her faults, realizes where she was wrong, and takes efforts to right all harms she inflicted. That sort of development and self-reflection is <em>amazing</em> to see in a novel.

I feel like a great many teenagers can relate to this. And I'm sure there are many out there who need to see the importance of self-reflection and improvement.

<u>Mutual Growth</u>

Instrumental to Pru's development is the adorable and kind Quint Erickson. Though we can easily guess, it turns out that Pru doesn't know Quint as well as she thinks she does. When she sets out to convince him to re-do their final project, she finds herself suddenly volunteering at his mother's Animal Rescue Center. And the more time she spends with Quint, the more she grows as a person.

Quint, himself, doesn't have a long path to follow in his journey to self-improvement. Sure, he has to re-evaluate what he knows of Pru and what he thinks of her, but that's mainly it. The rather predictable moment of conflict between them is entirely reasonable, as far as I'm concerned. And, yes, it's definitely a hurdle he has to tackle. But the events that lead up to it, particularly the counting moment, do justify the reaction a bit.

Also important are the wonderfully cute sea creatures that the Animal Rescue Center is dedicated to caring for. Soon Pru and Quint spark a deal: she will help out at the Center in exchange for his participation re-doing their project. But the more time she spends there, the more volunteering becomes about helping the center than about getting a better grade.

<b>Enacting Karma</b>

Honestly, the karma plot was the weakest point of this novel. The central conflict, while quite predictable for me, made sense for the novel. I, personally, wish it was harder to figure out the big issue and who was really at fault. But, at the same time, I can't fault Meyer for the plot. It was a decent, if a little cliché, one.

What I can fault her for, however, is the fact that Pru's karma powers were not used <em>at all</em> in resolving this conflict. In fact, barring the guilt Pru would feel later when she realized the karma she'd enacted had not been fair, her karmic powers were genuinely useless to the plot. They added to her development, sure. But I wanted more. If Meyer was really going to take advantage of this plot point, it <em>needed</em> to play a role in the conflict resolution.

And it didn't. At all.

<b>Real Writing</b>

In general, though, I loved this book. Quint was adorable, Pru's development was phenomenal, and the chemistry between them gives you <em>all the feels</em>. Their romance is definitely slow-burn and, unlike most hate-to-loves I've read, their initial hatred felt rather genuine. And that's the thing about Meyer as a writer: all of her characters feel <em>so real</em>. It's something I will always deeply appreciate her for. This is probably why she remains, to this day, an auto-buy author for me.

There may be moments in some of her books that don't work as well as I'd have liked, but at the end of the day, she is still a phenomenal writer. I adored <em>Instant Karma</em> and I hope you do, too.

Before I go, though, I have to give a quick shout-out to one of the funniest moments I've read in a while. The quick commentary on how landline phones still work during a power outage was <em>hilarious</em>. I can't help wondering how many young readers are going to come across this line and be utterly mind-blown by the information. I wonder how many are going to wait for the next power outage so they can try it out.

<em>I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</em>

This review will be live on the Reader Fox blog on October 20, 2020. It will also be reposted on November 3, 2020.

Cute. Light. Love the description and emotion portrayed in the writing. I feel for the characters. Love the names the author uses and the plot sucks you in.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this cute book! This is a cute contemporary YA romance with a small fantasy element. Honestly, the fantasy element was a little silly and felt a little tacked on, but otherwise, I really loved this book. I thought the main character, Prudence, was a lot of fun to get to know, and I enjoyed watching her relationships grow, especially with her love interest, Quint, and with her brother, Jude. The Beatles inspired names of Prudence and her siblings were fun, and I loved the entire small-town atmosphere that the story takes place in. Nothing completely unexpected happens in the story, but it is a fun story nonetheless, and I think fans of YA romance will definitely enjoy it. There are also some great environmental messages in the book that work well in the plot and don't come across as too heavy-handed. Definitely recommend this one to anyone who enjoys YA romance!

As a perfectionist, Prudence Daniels doesn't see the point of not trying your absolute best at something...especially schoolwork. Having been paired up with the laziest and most irresponsible kid in science class for an entire year has grated on her nerves and she is close to her breaking point. When it becomes clear that she and Quint have not completed their project to the satisfaction of their teacher, receiving a less-than-subpar grade, Pru is itching for some karmic justice. When she suddenly wakes up with the power to inflict as much karma as she wishes, Prudence is drunk with power and the gift the universe has given her unfolds into a summer of life lessons and unexpected plans.

Something I really like about this book is how Prudence's character was written. She definitely didn't have a glossy sheen to her that made me feel like she was fantastic, wonderful, etc; she was most definitely flawed which is a quality I appreciate in any character because it makes them feel more like a real person. I also really enjoyed how well this story flowed and the fact that I could blink and suddenly I had just read three chapters; additionally, I appreciated how much Meyer researched to write this book: I know absolutely nothing about the business world or rescue centers, but our main character always seemed very knowledgeable like she knew what she was talking about.

There are two very minor issues I have with this book starting with the romance. While it started great and I was excited to see where it went, I was immediately over it as soon as Quint accused Prudence of a serious theft from the Rescue Center. To me, it was extremely irritating to see Prudence forgive him at the end: that was a serious break of trust between the two of them, and I think it should have taken longer to heal that rift, if it happened at all. However, for the purpose of this romance, I understand why it ended the way it did it was just frustrating to bear witness to. Plus, she was kind of horrible to him to begin with so it's a spot of confusion for me since as I said, she was a very flawed character... Secondly, I was under the impression that Prudence's karma-inflicting power was going to be a big deal, and while it certainly helped round out the plot, I feel like it was neglected a little bit. There were a few times I was reading and she would suddenly decide to use her power for justice and I'd be like, "Oh yes, that's a thing!"

Overall, for a first foray into contemporary romance, I have to tell Marissa Meyer well done!

I received an e-arc of Instant Karma by Marissa Meyer from Macmillan in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Macmillan and NetGalley for letting me have the book early. All opinions are my own!

Prudence and Quint are lab partners who don't get along. She thinks he is lazy, irresponsible, and doesn't understand how he is able to get good grades in their biology class. Quint works at his mom's animal rescue center helping rehabilitate sea animals. Because she wants to make her biology grade higher, Pru ends up working with Quint at the animal rescue center. Can Quint and Pru learn to get along and put aside their differences?

I really enjoyed Instant Karma. There was just a little bit of magic, but it was still a contemporary novel. I do love the idea that Marissa Meyer created when she allowed Pru to exact karma on someone if she saw them doing something that wasn't right. It didn't always work as Pru planned, but it still worked. I also could see how much thought and research Marissa Meyer did on animal rescue centers to make sure a lot of the aspects of the care and rehabilitation were correct (yes, there were probably creative license ideas). I didn't even know everything that went into working at an animal rescue center.

I think Instant Karma would be perfect for someone who is burnt out on the same old fantasy tropes and just would like something that is different with a tiny bit of magic. Marissa Meyer did an amazing job with Instant Karma, but then again, she's always been one of my favorite authors.

3.5/5

Uptight, overachiever Prudence slips after signings Instant Karma at Karaoke, and wakes up to find that she has the power to give instant karma!

I didn’t love Prudence, so I had trouble connecting with her at the beginning. The story was fast-paced, and I enjoyed watching the interactions between Prudence and the other characters in the story. As the story continued, Meyer’s exquisite use of tension and description really helped move the story along, and set me in this sea life-filled town, and the animal-rescue center, especially. I loved Quint’s character and the “opposites attract” vibe he had with Prudence.

I would definitely recommend this sweet, environmentally-conscious story to my Students.

Prudence is not known for her sense of fun. She is no-nonsense, efficient, driven, independent, controlling...and judgmental. Being paired as science lab partners with her polar opposite, Quint, is a recipe for disaster. One day Pru falls and hits her head. It knocks her out and also gives her the ability to deliver instant karmic moments to people that she witnesses doing wrong. She revels in this gift until she realizes that her quick judgments are often misinformed. And the more that she spends time with Quint, the more she realizes she needs someone with his moral compass at her side. For fans of karaoke, the Beatles, and lipstick.

This title is very different than Ms. Meyer’s other great reads. That being said, it will not disappoint teens who love a nice romance. This was a page turner and very enjoyable. Who wouldn’t like to be able to punish those who are mean to others? Prudence and Quint are very likable, the romance is cute but not over the top and there is even a little mystery thrown in. Give this to any teen who loves romantic comedy novels and want a quick read. Ms. Meyer, I think, will win over some new fans with this one.
I received an ARC ebook from NetGalley and the publisher, Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, in exchange for an honest review.

Fun easy read! Very different than a typical Marissa Meyer novel but I still loved it! Fast paced rom-com with two high school students who seem like the most unlikely match that are forced to work together on an environmental science project. Sparks fly even when both resist again and again! Excellent character development and young readers will learn more about protecting marine life from ocean pollution thanks to the characters science project that is seamlessly weaved in as a part of the major plotline.